A Chronicle of the Sailor Scouts and the Ring of Seswaudra Book I: A deadly Foe unveiled - An alternate story line Sailor Moon story by Blue Monsma *Takes place after the inner scouts are united Leda-Jupiter Mina-Venus Rei-Mars Ami-Mercury Serena-Moon Darien-Tuxedo Mask Seana-Solara (one of mine) Brenton-BlueLightning (another of mine) Greg-Boris de Vries **** "You know why you are here?" Queen Beryl inquired. "Yes lady," Thron replied. "Good, inform of your success in capturing the Sailor Scouts but be warned. Should they interfere with my need for energy again you will regret it." "Stupid bitch," Thron muttered as he strode from the audience chamber, "she'll soon realize just who she's working with. In the mean time I'd best return to the Warp." **** "Ok," Leda sighed, "why the DT this time Serena, fail a test? Didn't do your homework?" "Late for class actually," Serena replied. "Tell me why I'm not surprised," Mina muttered. "No kidding," Rei quipped. "If you'd just apply yourself a little more, Serena, I'm sure you could do well," Ami stated. "Yeh, and hell might....You expecting anyone else Leda?" Rei asked. "No, its probably just some door to door salesman. Back in a sec." **** "Hello, how can I...." "Is this 1221 crescent row, apartment C?" a strange orange hared girl cut Leda off. "Yeh, who the hell are you?" Leda demanded. "Pardon my associate," a white haired young man drawled, "she has no sense of subtlety. My name's Brenton Basa, my associate is Seana Adams. We're here to help you, ie the Sailor Scouts. Might we come in?" "And I have no sense of subtlety?" Seana muttered as Leda led the two to her living room. "Just working with what was left me," Brenton replied. "What's with the urbane bit, anyway?" Seana asked. "It's so phoney that it relaxes people," Brenton replied. "Ehem," Leda coughed, "would you two perhaps like to introduce yourself." "My name is Brenton Basa, alternately known as BlueLightning K'Raneau. I'm a Greater Adept and a shifter like you. My associate is" "is Seana Adams a.k.a. Solara. I'm an Avatar of the sun God. That makes me something like a close cousin to you as scouts. We're here to balance Beryl' s new ally." "Just what makes you think we'll believe you?" Mina asked. "Its like dealing with Blade," Brenton muttered, "surely you remember us from the Moon kingdom." "None of you do?" Seana asked in dismay. "I'm going to have a long talk with you know who about the dampening field," Brenton muttered ominously. "Perhaps Luna or Artemis will remember you," Ami suggested, "but they won't be here for another half an hour." "I guess we're stuck with you. In the mean time how about explaining about whoever this Blade is and what you mean by a dampening field?" Mina suggested. "The dampening field is an energy field that forces you to forget any past life experience unless you know a way around it, like Seana and I do. As for Blade, well that's a long story. It all began......." Brenton explained. **** "Luna, Artemis, I'm glad your back," Leda said. "What's the matter?" Luna inquired." "Strange people, who know who we are," piped up Serena from over Leda's shoulder. "They say they've met us in the Moon Kingdom. Amy, Rei and Mina are keeping them entertained in the living room." Leda explained. "Did they say they're names?" Luna asked. "They said they were known as BlueLightning and Solara." Leda stated. "It figures," Artemis muttered, "Blue always did have a strange sense of humor." "What's that supposed to mean?" Serena asked. "You'll find out soon enough," Artemis replied with an evil grin. **** "Brenton, Seana, may I introduce Luna and Artemis our mentors," Mina introduced the two cats. "Perhaps you'd like to explain exactly what it is you're doing here," Luna suggested. "Look puddy tat. To use the immortal words of Han Solo -'I take orders from just one person, Me'. I certainly don't take orders from over intelligent familiars." Brenton quipped. "Let it rest, Brenton. Look, the reason we're here is that Beryl has brought in a new Ally. We don't no anything about he, she or it other than right now Beryl's giving the orders. We were the only two of the Ring that were available.. That clear things up?" Seana asked. "Two questions," Mina interjected, "first off just what are the Ring and second how is it that you're able to appear on our doorstep at just the right moment?" "The Ring is a group of eight...." "Nine," Seana cut in. "Sorry nine," Brenton continued, "champions who are brought in to put out brush fires. As to why we're here, well, we both were unable to complete our last assignment and this is a combination chance to redeem ourselves and apology from those we serve," Brenton said, tracing an odd pattern on his wrist. "Just how did you arrive here?" Ami asked, "I mean we've never herd of you before and your not exactly hard to miss." "Let it lie Ami," Leda barked after catching the look on Seana's face. "But...." "Listen to her, Ami," Mina instructed. "So your mercenaries then?" Mina asked. "Mercenaries!" Brenton choked with suppressed rage. "Cool effect. How do you glow like that?" Serena asked. "BLUE! You'll have to excuse him. He starts glowing when he tries to check his temper. For some reason he has a real problem with mercenaries," Seana explained. "My apologies. I'd best disappear before I do something inappropriate but perhaps you ladies would care to be are guests tomorrow for dinner. I'm not the chef that Leda is reputed to be but I think that I can provide an interesting meal. We're at the Bordelle Place apartments just down the road. Seana, shall we?" Brenton asked. "Thanks all the same but I think I'll stay around here for a while, if that's ok with you ladies," Seana stated. "No problem," Leda said. "Suit yourself. I'll see you later then," Brenton said as he made his way out. "So what is it with that guy?" Rei asked. "Yeh, he's like way weird," Serena chimed in. "You could say that," Seana laughed, "but which part did you mean? The glowing bit or the fact that he acts more feminine than Leda?" "Hey," Leda muttered. "Both actually," Rei replied. "The glowing is part of what he said about being a Greater Adept. Brenton or more accurately BlueLightning uses magic. Not the kind that you see stage performers use but real magic. There's very little about it he doesn't know. In fact he's probably the reigning expert on magic," Seana explained. "Just how powerful is he?" Mina asked. "He certainly has the power to level Tokyo more likely all of Japan. Don't kid yourself though. Any of the Negaverse agents you've faced have been almost as powerful. As for the other part, well Brenton's probably as feminine as any of you. His taste's certainly run the same way," Seana finished. "Tastes?" Serena asked. "You don't mean?" Ami gasped. "Mmhmmm. He's as gay as they come. In the thirteen thousand years I've known him he's never had a sexual thought about a women," Seana answered. "What about you?" Mina asked. "We talking sexual preference or powers here?" Seana inquired. "Just powers," Mina blushed. "No let's here the rest as well. Your face tells me your hiding something," Leda cut in. "You're not being very nice," Amy chided. "Best know who we're going to be working with," Leda replied. "All right," Seana sighed, "Brenton's not the only one who prefers his own sex. I admit, I'm a sucker for a pare of cute breasts and a nice ass. " Ami being the first to recover her wits returned to the original question, "what about your powers." "I've learned a little magic from Blue and some of the others but nothing worth mentioning. My real powers are almost identical to yours. I can control both light and heat. Hell, my costume even looks like yours." "Sorry to cut in but does anyone know what time it is?" Rei asked. "Yeh, its...nine. Why? Leda responded after checking her watch. "Shit. I told Grandpa I'd be back by eight," Rei explained. "I'd best be getting to my studies," Ami said by way of farewell. "Say Mina, I'm famished. Wannna stop at the pizza place on our way home?" Serena asked. "Sure, I don't have anything else to do," Mina replied. "See you tomorrow guys," Leda waved. "I guess I should disappear as well," Seana said. "Stay a while, please," Leda begged. "You sure? I mean your friends might wonder after what I said," Seana replied. "Nah, besides I need your advice," Leda explained. "I'll do my best," Seana responded. "What I'm about to say is kinda personal so I'd appreciate it if you kept it to yourself. You see, I'm a lesbian too and worse off I've gone and fallen in love with Mina," Leda paused. "Two things, right off. One, its not bad to be attracted to women. Its completely natural. Not as common as strait pairings but even animals that mate for life are known to exhibit homosexual pairings. Two and its a biggie, is Mina even interested in women?" Seana asked. "I think she is but I can't get her to admit it and I don't want to pressure her into anything," Leda stated. "Look, there's not a lot that I can help you with. It may just be that she needs to see what its like with a man. That's at what ever level she works at. Maybe she's just hiding things from you. If I hear anything I'll let you know. Meantime all I can say is that if there's anything at all I can do for you I will. Till tomorrow then," Seana departed. **** "Ok, let me get this strait," Leda muttered, "two mysterious strangers waltz into our lives. I wind up telling one of them my life story and she proceeds to what? Offer me....Nah, couldn't. Then again maybe she could. Tempting. Oh, hell I hardly know her. Where'd Brenton leave that phone number anyway, I'll call and see if there's anything I can bring." **** "That's funny I thought I locked the door. Hello is anyone home?" Ami called. "In the Kitchen," a hauntingly familiar voice called. "Greg!?" Ami dropped her books. "Er, yeh, hi. Sorry I picked the lock and let myself in but I wanted to surprise you," Greg smiled. "Well you sure did a good job," Ami replied. "Look, I know this is kind of extreme just showing up on your door step like this but you meant a lot to me. You still mean a lot to me. I was sort of hoping we could spend some time together," Greg explained. "I'd like that. So how long are you in the city?" Ami asked. "Permanently," Greg replied. "Your dad got transferred again?" "No actually my dad doesn't even know I'm here. Look its like this. Things haven't been going well for me for a lot of years. Then you came into my life and suddenly I had something special. Next thing I know its being taken away. So I saved up and came back to find you," Greg explained. "You'll stay here until you can find your own place," Ami stated with unusual force. "I'd like that. So tell me what's happened to you Ami," Greg commented. **** "So what do you think of them?" Mina asked. "Who?" Serena managed between mouthfuls. "Seana and Brenton," Mina replied. "He's kind of cute. Too bad he's into other guys. I don't know about her though," Serena noted. After getting no reply she continued, "What do you think Mina? Hello? Mina? Earth to Mina." "Wha? Sorry, just thinking about something," Mina explained. "What?" Serena asked. "You'll just laugh," Mina said. "No I won't, promise," Serena stated. "All right well I was just thinking that Seana was kind of cute." "Say what?!" Serena demanded "Look, I'm sorry I said anything ok," Mina replied. "You should be," Serena responded. "What's your problem anyway," Mina sobbed. "Oh damn, Mina I'm sorry its just that you took me by surprise. Its hard to accept that someone your close to might be interested in you. Know what I mean?" Serena tried to comfort her friend. "In all the time you've known me," Mina said with some of her usual cool, "have you ever known me to do or say something that might be considered beyond the bounds of friendship?" Mina asked. "No," was Serena's response. "So what make's you think I'd star now?" Mina inquired. "I don't know its just such a shock. I mean Seana flaunts it but she's the first lesbian I've ever met," Serena replied. "Yeh, sorry bout that. I did kinda drop a big one on you there. At least I know I've been keeping it hidden. God can you imagine what Rei would say if she knew? You won't tell her will you?" Mina asked. "Relax, your secret's safe with me," Serena replied. **** "Let's see now, the bread's going to need time to rise so I'd best set the stuff out now so I can get started first thing tomorrow," Brenton muttered to himself. "Hello?" Seana called. "Hi Seana, I'm in the kitchen," Brenton responded. "You got a minute?" Seana asked, " I could use a shoulder." "What's up?' Brenton asked, emerging from the kitchen. "Oh God, Brenton, I just don't know if I've got the strength for this," Seana said. "What do you mean?" Brenton asked. "I just find the person I've loved for two life times and I discover that she's in love with someone else," Seana explained. "Blessed Trine, I didn't realize. Leda is it?" Brenton asked. "Yeh, I've known about her since our time on AEarth. The trouble is I didn't know that she was in love with someone else," Seana stated. "Look, I'm sorry but there's not a lot I can do other than offer a hug and a shoulder," Brenton said. "I'll take you up on that hug," Seana said. ring "I'd best answer that," Brenton began. "That's ok, I think I'll lie down for a while," Seana replied. "Hello, Brenton speaking" "Brenton, hi, its Leda. I was calling to check if there was anything that I could bring tomorrow. You may not have heard but Serena has a big apatite." "Actually I had heard. I've got everything covered except dessert right now but if you'd like to take care of that then I'll leave it in your hands." "Will do. Bye Brenton." "Bye" ***** "It's been great talking Greg but I'm going to have to go to bed if I'm to go to school tomorrow. There are blankets in the closet and the couch is right over there," Amy stated. "Thanks Amy," Greg replied. ***** "All right Luna, so what do these two strangers mean?" Serena asked. "Well, they're on our side but it means trouble. The Ring only appears in times of great danger. They are very good but I'm sure the other side has someone just as good." "Great, now what do we do?" Serena asked. "Now you go to bed after all tomorrow is a school day. Meanwhile I'm going to go speak with Brenton. I think I'd like to know more about what they are up to." ***** *Blessed Lady, what is it you do to me?* Brenton thought *Did I not suffer enough for you on AEarth? For three thousand years I was so certain, so confidant. Now suddenly I find that confidence stripped away. I have given my love to other men, that is a part of who I am. Then I met Jennifer and my confidence was shaken. Losing her cost me so much, friends, a family, the mission and eventually my life. Now I have a chance to make up for it and I find myself betrayed by my own body. Seana was so vulnerable, so helpless and Goddess help me but I was attracted to her. Only Jen has had the power to do that. Now Seana as well? What is happening to me?* "That's a sad song you play," Luna began. "Sad memories," Brenton replied. "You play the flute very well. I was sorry to interrupt," Luna stated. "But you did so what can I do for you?" Brenton finished for her. "I need to know more about what's brought you here," Luna answered. "I truly wish that I could give you an answer Luna. All I know is this. Seana and I were both on an assignment to a world called AEarth along with the rest of the Ring. Seana and I have talked of it since our arrival here and we were both haunted by dreams of this place. Hers were far more powerful that mine. Anyway, someone who meant a great deal to me died and I tried to follow her but instead of being reunited I found myself here. Seana's story is a bit different. She was alone most of her life, outcast because of her tastes and who she was. Like I said, her dreams were very powerful, so powerful that she fell in love with someone in this world. She killed herself to escape loneliness and I guess I did too in a way. We both found ourselves here. All that our prayer and divination has revealed is that we are here to counteract an Ally to Beryl. That's all I know." "Who is Seana in love with?" Luna asked. "I can't say. To do so would be to break trust." "Please I must know if I am to help each of the Scouts," Luna insisted. "All right but only because in helping her you may also help Seana. Seana has been in love with Leda since her last lifetime," Brenton explained. "Thank you, I think I may be able to help them both. Until dinner then." "Until dinner," Brenton bid farewell. ***** "Greg? Are you awake?" Ami asked. "Yeh Ami, what's up?" Greg inquired. "You look so uncomfortable out there. Come keep me company?" she invited. "Uh.....ok," Greg squeaked. "Oh, oh my, that didn't sound very good did it? I just meant to sleep," Ami stated. "Oh," Greg sounded both relieved and disappointed. "Time for that soon enough," Ami found herself saying. ***** "Hi Brenton, sorry I'm early. Is there somewhere I can put this dessert? Preferably somewhere that Serena can't find it," Leda asked. "There's room here in the pantry," Brenton replied. "There, that should keep it until we're ready," Leda stated. "So, to what do I owe the honor?" Brenton asked. "Luna said we needed to talk. Something about shared loss. Do you know what she was talking about?" Leda queried. "I think so. I'll tell you a story and I'm guessing that when I'm done you'll have one for me," Brenton began, "My last life was a short one. When I was about fifteen I met and fell in love with a young girl named Jen Horton. " "Wait a sec, I thought you were ..." "Gay? So did I. Anyway Jen and I spent a glorious month together. At the end of that time she had to go home. I wanted to follow her but I didn't have the strength to defy my family. I spent two years wondering what happened to Jen. After the two years had passed word reached me. She had started to starve herself and had died six months after we were separated. It was at that point that I lost all hope. The pattern on my arm is what is left of the scars I inflicted by killing myself. Instead of finding myself reunited with Jen I found myself here," Brenton explained. "My story's a bit shorter. About a year ago my boyfriend Freddy dumped me. We'd just had sex for the first time. I was miserable and a classmate of mine picked up on it. She kept me busy doing things to take my mind off Freddy. About a week after she had started we wound up in bed together. We were wonderful together, in bed and out. About three months ago Jill, that was her name, got into a car accident. After that I tried to drink myself to death but maybe because I'm a Scout or maybe just because I'm unlucky I couldn't die. That's my story," Leda finished. "Powerful stuff," Brenton murmured. "Yeah. So where's Seana anyway?" Leda queried. "She's probably still at school. The director called a practice for this evening. She'll be back before dinner though," Brenton explained. "Hello? Anyone home?" Rei shouted. "We're in the kitchen Rei," Leda called out. "Sorry for letting myself in there but no one answered when I rang the bell," Rei explained. "That's ok," Brenton forgave her, "we just had something we needed to talk about." "Anything I should know about?" Rei inquired. "No!" Leda quickly replied. "Ok. So where is everyone?" Rei asked. "Seana's at a drama practice, Serena's probably got a detention, Mina said something about wanting to bring something from home. I don't know where Ami is. Oh, I bet that's her on the phone," Leda stated. "Hello? Brenton speaking." "Brenton, hello. Its Ami. I was wondering if there was possibly room for one more at dinner. I've got a special friend in town and I can't really leave him at home." "That's no problem Ami," Brenton said. "Glad to hear it. We'll be over in a little bit then," Ami returned. "That was Ami," Brenton explained. "Did she say anything to either of you about having a friend over?" "No" "I can't remember her saying anything, why?" Rei asked. "Well she just invited her mystery friend over to join us for dinner," Brenton replied. "Hi all, sorry I'm late," Mina apologized. "Gees Mina, what's with all the equipment?" Leda asked. "I thought I might provide some music after dinner," Mina informed them. "A synth player. Brenton smiled. "Wow Mina, you play the synthesizer? I never knew!" Rei exclaimed. "I've always really enjoyed playing and Artemis badgered me into bringing the equipment today. Is there somewhere I can put this?" Mina asked. "There should be room over by the bar," Brenton stated. "Here, let me help you," Leda offered. "Thanks," was Mina's muffled response. "Hi guys, sorry I'm late but Ms. H was being a bitch again," Serena entered. "Glad to see you," Brenton greeted, "that just leaves Ami and Seana." "Seana's right here," Seana said coming through the door. "Oh hi Seana. You have a DT too?" Serena asked. "No, drama practice actually," Seana replied. "Drama practice on a Friday afternoon? Ick!" Serena responded. "You have no idea how many of the cast felt the same way," Seana smiled. "Hello all. I'm sorry to interrupt your conversation but I'd like to introduce you to someone. Leda, Mina and Serena I think you know Greg. Seana, Brenton this is Greg, a rather special friend," Ami smiled. "Blessed Agnira! de Vries what are you doing here?" Brenton gasped. "How did you know that name?" Greg demanded. "Don't you remember us from AEarth?" Brenton asked softly. "BlueLightning K'Raneau, now I recognize you," Greg said. "And you're Boris de Vries, the poor soul who's caught in a life of pain and strife," Brenton whispered. "Caught because I can't give up that life without giving up this one and that's something I won't do," Greg explained. "Would someone mind explaining?" Rei demanded. "Sorry," Seana apologized. "We knew Greg on the last world where we lived. To put it bluntly he was a mess. It all makes sense when you understand that he was living to lifetimes at once." "Isn't that very difficult?" Rei asked. "Almost impossible," Brenton provided. "In such a case one life is almost always an agony for the person. We just weren't intended to live more than one life at a time." "Why," the question hovered on Ami's lips. "A thing needed doing that only I could do. I wasn't about to give up meeting you but I had to be on AEarth as well. That's why," Greg explained. "Sorry to interrupt further conversation but dinner's ready," Brenton interjected. "Great! What are we having?" Serena asked. "Come on into the dinning room and you'll see," Brenton invited. "It looks wonderful," Ami murmured. "Uh Brenton, where's the meat?" Leda asked. "Oh, sorry. I probably should have mentioned Seana and I are vegetarians. It has to do with practicing magic. The energy in meat interferes in the casting of spells. Seana also has an ethical hang up about killing animals," Brenton stated. "Your not into tofu and all that stuff are you?" Serena asked worriedly. "Don't worry Serena, no tofu just seeds and nuts," Seana chimed in. "It looks great!" Mina exclaimed. "Shall we get started then?" Brenton suggested. ***** "Say Blue that was a great meal even there was no meat," Leda complimented. "Your dessert was great to Leda," Serena stated. "So speaks the person who had four helpings," Rei shot back. "I'm a growing girl" Serena replied. "Growing fat!" Rei quipped. "If you ladies are finished I'm ready to begin," Mina cut in. "We're being quiet aren't we Rei," Serena said. "Glad to hear it. This first piece is one you might recognize. Its called Dark horse," Mina stated. "Wow Mina that was great!" Serena marveled. "Glad you liked it. Any Requests?" Mina smiled. "How about the Highlander theme," Leda suggested. "Coming up," Mina replied. "That was great Mina. I don't mean to cut in on your show but would you mind some company?" Brenton asked. "Not at all," Mina replied, "what do you play?" "The flute. You ready?" "Yeh" ***** "Whoa, that was something else," Leda muttered. "How many songs was that?" Serena asked. "I don't know," Rei answered, "but it was good." "All right you two. You think you're so hot, see if you can keep up with this," Seana grinned. "Not the pipes," Brenton groaned. "Pipes?" Mina asked. "You play the Bagpipes?" Rei demanded. "Yup," Seana replied. "All right you to keep up with this if you can." "When the fields are low," Greg's head lifted in song. "And the fallen are slain. When the valiant are gone. And the noble are dead. When the righteous are no more. Then you know this world." "What was that?" Leda whispered. "Its a Celtic lament. The three of us wrote it on AEarth. I'm surprised you remembered, That was so long ago," Greg said. "I hold it close to my heart always," Seana stated. "And I too, my friend," Brenton whispered. "Well guys its been great but I'd better be getting home. Whoa, Rei, you all tight? You were hitting the wine pretty hard," Leda stated. "I'll be ok, the walk home'll do me good," Rei returned. "Sorry to interrupt those plan's but I'm picking up on something," Brenton said. "Danger!" Rei hissed. "That confirms it. All right ladies lets transform," Brenton instructed. "Mars Power!" "Jupiter Power!" "Mercury Power!" "Venus Power!" "Moon Prism Power!" "Sun's Flame!" "Took you long enough" BlueLightning said, tapping his foot. "Hey, just because you only have to trace a tatoo," Solara warned. "You stay here Greg, we'll be back soon," Mercury instructed. "Not a chance Ami. I've picked up a few tricks since last time. I'm coming with you," he said vehemently, waving a strange set of cards. "The Tarot," was BlueLightning's cryptic response. ***** "So just what is that thing?" Jupiter asked. "No idea," Venus answered. "Don't look at me," BlueLightning muttered. "It looks dangerous," Mercury stated. "No Shit!" mars responded. "Do you think we might get started?" Solara inquired, "its a might chilly in this glorified swimming suite." "Jupiter, you and Venus aim for that thing he's riding, Mercury Solara and I'll hit the rider," Mars instructed. "Right," was the response all round. Mercury quickly launched her bubbles at the rider and beast surrounding them in a cloud of mist. Mars' fireball was only slightly faster than the shimmering wave of heat. With a loud sizzle the rider toppled out of its saddle. "What's that smell?" Serena asked. "Roast something," Seana replied. "If anyone suggests we eat it I'll heart them," Mars warned. "Our turn now, right Venus?" Jupiter shouted. "You bet," Venus replied. Both girls quickly fired their shots and just as quickly the two shots bounced harmlessly away. The rose that hit it a few seconds later was equally ineffective. "I'll try a charm," Rei sounded unsure. "Try one for Demons. this doesn't feel right," Seana stated. "Right," was Mars response. Mars quickly ran at the beast applying the charm. The beast stopped dead in its tracks and began pawing its face. "That slowed it down," Rei smiled. "Almost got it," BlueLightning muttered. A second later a crack of lightning shot down from a clear night sky. The beast toppled over dead before vanishing in a cloud of purple smoke. The ridder also disappeared at the same instant. "Nice shot Venus," Moon congratulated. "Don't look at me," Venus was wild eyed. "They don't call me BlueLightning for nothing," Blue commented. "So what were those things?" Venus asked. "Why don't we head back to the Apartment before we try to answer that question. I'd rather our conversation didn't wind up on the eleven o'clock news," Solara stated reverting to her alternate form. ***** "All right, now that we're safely back here, does anyone have any idea what those things were?" Mina demanded. "Not a clue," Seana stated. "That beast was definitely demonic. The rider looked like something out of a bad science fiction movie." "Yeh and what was that weapon he was carrying? It looked like a machine gun," Ami stated. "That's it! But damn, I wish Onsem was here. he's the seer of the bunch," Brenton said. "Anything I can help with?" Greg asked. "You just might at that. Can you contact one of the Ring in the Forty third Millennium?" Brenton asked. "It can be done if it has to," Greg answered. "Try for Onsem he'll be able to boost from his end. Show him what we're up against and see if he recognizes it," Brenton instructed. "You think that thing came from the future? What about Crystal Tokyo?" Rei asked. "I think it might come from a future. We'll have to wait and see. the Ring exists at some level in each future" Brenton explained. "Didn't you say earlier that that was extremely painful?" Rei persisted. "I said that it was extremely painful for humans. None of the Ring are actually human," Brenton concluded. "Just what are you then?" Ami asked. "I was once part human and part what you'd probably call Elf. The use of Magic has affected me so much that I can no longer be called anything other than Mage. The magic makes a Mage over in its own image. That's how I came by the bleached hair and eyes," Brenton explained. "I'd always wondered. I mean grey hairs weird but those grey eyes of yours are too weird. What about you Seana?" Leda asked. "I'm an Avatar. The god I serve made me specifically to serve him. That means I'm immune to a lot of things like what Brenton was talking about," Seana stated. "Must be nice not to get a cold," Serena smiled. "Unfortunately my God forgot about that," Seana griped. "Look, since its kind off late and there's plenty of room why don't you all crash here for the night," Brenton suggested. "You sure?" Mina asked, "I mean we don't want to be any trouble." "No trouble," Seana assured them. "I'd better call my parents or they'll be worried," Serena stated. "I'd better phone Gramps too," Rei stated. "Yeh I've got to make a call too," Mina said. "Phone's in the kitchen," Brenton stated. "All right, Brenton you've got your room, Serena can have mine. That leaves the guest room for Boris and Ami. The rest of us will have to fight over the couch," Seana smiled. "That's ok, you take the couch. Rei'll want to meditated by the fire and Mina and I'll sleep on the floor," Leda stated. "Convenient," Seana whispered to herself. "I'll go get some pillows and extra blankets." "So what're the sleeping arangments and where is Seana headed?" Mina asked, returning from the phone. "Brenton's got one room, Serena the second and Ami and Greg the third. Mina and I'll take the floor, Rei's got the fire and Seana the couch," Leda explained. "You mean you and Greg are sleeping together?!" Mina demanded. "Yes we are," Ami replied bluntly. "Coming Greg?" "Right behind you Ami," Greg responded. "Night all," Brenton moved off. "Well goodnight everyone," Serena went to bed. "Here are the pillows and blankets," Seana said upon entering. "Nice place you've got, I'm surprised that an apartment like this has a fireplace. What does this run?" Rei asked. "Its ridiculously expensive but since Blue can create gold out of thin air we can afford it," Seana explained. "I wondered how you two supported yourself," Mina said. "How about some music to get to sleep by?" Seana suggested. "Sure, Leda, this one's for you," Mina said setting her synthesizer to play a Brian Adams love song. "What do you mean this one's for me," Leda asked quietly of Mina. "Simple silly, you're an attractive woman who I care about. I thought you knew," Mina stated. "You mean you're interested? I thought that you liked guys," Leda said. "Had you fooled, did I? I was just worried that you wouldn't be interested. It was meeting Seana that gave me enough confidence to approach you. She's so confidant about being gay. So's Brenton for that matter," Mina said. "I guess we did a pretty good job of fooling each other," Leda smiled, "I wonder if it saved either of us any pain. Are we really better keeping it secret." "Don't kid yourself being openly gay has its risks but they're worth it if we can be more than friends," The two kissed passionately. /Why the tears,/ A strange voice entered Seana's thoughts. /What! Who are you?/ Seana demanded of the voice. /Its Rei,/ the voice sounded hurt. /Sorry, I'm not used to being around other telepaths. I haven't had to shield in a long time,/ Seana explained. /Quit avoiding the question,/ Rei responded. /All right, its like this, someone I've loved for a very long time is in love with another person,/ Seana wept. /So what did, wait a sec you don't mean Mina do you?/ Rei demanded. /No, its not Mina,/ Seana laughed half heartedly. /Then who? Not Leda?!/ Rei squawked. /Yeh its Leda,/ Seana winced. /Sorry, I don't have anyone to practice with,/ Rei apologized. /If it helps any I know something of how it feels to be left out of the loop, so to speak./ /Thanks,/ Seana responded. /Goodnight Seana/ /Goodnight Rei/ ***** "You didn't really mean what you said out there did you about us sleeping together?" Greg asked. "Of course I did, its true after all," Ami replied calmly. "Well in a literal sense but not what they think," Greg commented. "We're going to change that tonight," Ami's smile was seductive. "Here, in someone else's home?" Greg yelped. "That's right," Ami smile grew even bigger. Slowly she ban unbuttoning his shirt. Greg's breaths grew short . Finally his hand swept out to caress her cheek. Greg's shirt fell away from him, landing in a heap on the floor. Ami's shirt followed shortly after. With growing confidence Greg caressed Ami's bra clad breast. Ami began kissing Greg, starting with his mouth and slowly working her way down. When she reached his jeans she slowly unbuttoned them and let the zipper drop. With a gentle touch he brought her up to a passionate kiss. Ami's bra was slowly removed with trembling hands. Then it was Greg's turn kissing her neck, her breastbone and then gently laying a kiss on each nipple. Slowly, letting his tongue drag across each millimeter of her breast Greg worked. First the left then the right but always agonizingly slow. Finally he reached her skirt. With a tug it fell away. Her panties quickly followed. With one hand he gently caressed her sheathe and slowly let a finger enter her. Ami gasped, guiding Greg once more to her lips. Finally she removed his boxers leaving the two standing naked in the middle of the room. "Ami wait, I have to find a condom," Greg broke the moment. "No Greg. This is my first time and I want to feel you inside me without some sterile piece of rubber separating us," Ami asserted. Greg's eyes grew blank as he gazed into the mists of the future, "No Ami you don't know what you risk." "Shhh, Greg," she silenced him with a kiss. Slowly she led him to the bed. They fell into each other's arms kissing passionately. His first tentative thrust hear her a little but that was soon lost in the flow of sensual love. Steadily the two worked towards climax. With each thrust Greg gained confidence. Soon he began to caress Ami's breasts. Ami returned the favor by pulling him tight and kissing him deeply, there tongues dancing a seductive dance. Finally with a moan Greg climaxed, shooting his seed deep into Ami's womb. The sensation was to much for Ami and she soon followed Greg into climax. ***** "So love, where do we go from here," Mina whispered. "Just hold on and enjoy," Leda's look was seductive. "Here! What about the other two?" Mina demanded. "So we do it quietly," was Leda's response. Leda's hand crept below the sheets to cup Mina's mound. The blond girl let out a quiet gasp. She responded by bringing a hand to grasp Leda's breast. The two continued to pleasure each other long in to the night unaware of the world around them. ***** "Ughhhh, where am I?" Leda asked. "Finally up sleepy head?" Mina asked, kissing her ear. "What time is it?" Leda queried. "I don't know, I think its about ten though," Mina said. "Are you awake in there?" Brenton asked coming from the kitchen, "oh, sorry didn't realize you weren't dressed." "Well obviously we aren't so get out," Mina said pulling the covers to her ears. "I'm leaving, I'm leaving. Breakfast is in the dinning room whenever you're ah ready," Brenton called over his shoulder. "I guess we probably should get dressed,' Leda stated. "I guess," was Mina's reply. ***** "So just how do you two explain living together?" Serena asked, taking a bite of her french toast. "Yes, I've been meaning to ask you. I mean you're obviously not married," Ami added. "We're playing a brother and sister. I'm supposed to be finished High school and working on a novel. Seana still has to attend school," Brenton gloated. "He won the coin toss and got to stay home," Seana explained. "And you let him get away with that?" Rei demanded. "I don't really mind. School's a breeze when you've been through it as many times as I have," Seana stated. "You're nuts, that's the only reason I can think of," Mina said. "No one in their right mind enjoys going to school." "I object to that," Ami muttered. "You would, Serena said, smiling. "Now ladies, let's not fight at the table," Brenton grinned. "Fine then, we'll take it into the living room," Mina returned. "There's no talking to them when they're in this mood," Brenton said to Greg. "Hey, don't get me into this. Remember I've got a girl friend. I'd kind of like to keep my head where it is," Greg said. "You're not afraid of her are you?" Brenton asked. "You wouldn't understand the concept of a woman scorned. Take my word for it, its not a pleasant experience," Greg asserted. "Now that we've suitably beat the topic of school and sanity into the ground what's the plan for today?" Seana asked. "I need to make contact with Onsem in the future. Brenton, Rei, Seana and Ami, I'd like your help," Greg said. "Everyone else has some psychic abilities Greg, what help can I be?" Ami asked. "Don't you feel differently this morning Ami?" Greg asked. "Yes but well.....oh never mind," Ami said "It's called a lifebond. The two of us are psychically bound for as long as we live," Greg explained. "That's sweet," Mina smiled. "More than that its highly useful at this point," Brenton added. "Have you no sense of romance?" Mina demanded. "All things have their time," Brenton replied. "In this case Brenton's right," Seana stated. "Anyway, let's get started. Is there somewhere we can be outside to do this?" Greg asked. "There's a spot on the roof. This way," Brenton said. ***** "All right, what I need is everybody in a circle. You might want to transform for maximum effectiveness," Greg stated. "Right!" the other's chorused. "Mars Power!" "Mercury Power!" "Sun's Flame!" "Now everyone hold hands. I want you to think about channeling energy to me. There's's's not going to be anything to see so I want you to keep it up until I tell you otherwise," Greg said. "Solara, you remember the channeling hmm?" BlueLightning asked. "Don't think it would work here. Its not exactly a combat situation," Solara replied. "True enough. I stand corrected," Blue said. "All right, I'm starting now," Greg said. ***** "I wonder what's going on up There's?" Serena asked. "Not a clue, but from what they said, I'm glad I'm down here," Mina stated. "Say have either of you seen Luna or Artemis. I haven't seen them since last night while we were transforming," Leda said. "That's weird. Its not like them to just disappear lie they did. I wonder what's going on?" Mina pondered. "Let's ask the others about it when they get back," Serena suggested. "What, sense from our illustrious leader?" Leda jibbed. "Hey, I can have a good idea now and then," Serena returned. ***** "It's done," Greg gasped. "I talked with Onsem in the year 4350. He seemed a little distracted but he gave me the information you wanted." "Let's go back down stairs and you can fill the whole group in at once," Blue suggested. "Whew, I'm exhausted," Mars sighed. "I think I'm going to be sick," Mercury said, fallowed by an unpleasant sound. "Blue, give Mercury a hand with the stairs, I'll help Boris," Seana instructed. "Hey what about me?" Mars demanded. "You're just out of condition. I little energy channeling shouldn't bother anyone who calls themselves gifted in the psychic arts," Seana asserted. "So you guys going to change back anytime soon?" Leda asked. "I've been a little distracted, Leda," Mercury commented. "So what did you discover?" Mina asked. "I got in touch with Onsem like you asked, Brenton. You were right, the thing we faced last night was from the future. He had a theory as to who's behind the disturbance. It seems somebody in his time is generating quite a stir. He said the Ring had been stolen. Apparently a military expedition from that time was sent to obtain the ring as a power source. Supposedly no one knew that it would bring down the wrath of the nine. Anyway, to cut a long story short somebody named Thron is involved. Apparently he's fighting a losing war in his time. Onsem thought that Thron might be trying to win the fight by attacking you in this time," Greg said. "Sorry to barge in but what's up?" Artemis asked from the door. "We just found out that Beryl's ally is named Thron. He's from the future. Where have you two been?" Mina demanded. "Sorry to disappear on you like that but Artemis and I were detecting a strange energy signal and we wanted to check it out with the computer," Luna explained. "What did you find?" Leda asked. "It seems that there were actually two energy patterns. One was coming from what ever it was you were fighting. The other pattern is still building. I think you should check it out," Luna instructed. "So that's what he meant. Onsem said to be expecting some friendly company in the next few hours. He must mean one of the Ring is going to be joining us," Greg said. "I wonder who it could be? The Druids are tied down for at least another fifty years. The Ghost Clansmen shouldn't be ready yet. That leaves the Priest or Rogue," Brenton sighed. "You don't sound too impressed. Just who is this Rogue person anyway?" Rei asked. "He's the questionable ninth member of our group. He's a scholar and a historian. He's got an ego problem though," Brenton explained. "He's not all that bad. Brenton's dealings have usually come at bad time's like just after Rogue's completed a history. I've worked with him much more. Take my word for it either one is worth having at a time like this. Why don't we take a stroll to wherever this energy pattern is located?" Seana suggested. ***** "So just where's this guy supposed to appear?" Rei asked. "According to our calculations, exactly where you're standing right now," Luna replied. "I guess I might want to think about moving then, huh?" Rei asked jokingly "There's's a thought, pea for brains," Serena piped. "You keep your nose out of this moron!" Rei quipped. "Dweeb!" "Moron!" "All right already enough!," Brenton shouted. "Dweeb!" "Moron!" No such.........Ayee what was that?!" Leda demanded. "Just a little something to get those two stopped," Blue said. "If you two ladies are finished I'll see if I can't help open the portal." "Are you sure that's such a good idea. I mean we don't know that this is one of your friends. Who knows what you could bring through," Ami said. "Relax I recognize Delny's spell. Don't worry, who ever comes through will be a friend," Blue asserted. "Back up everyone! Give Blue some room," Seana barked. "Almost got it. Just a few more seconds," BlueLightning muttered. "A smooth trip as always thanks to you and Delny," the stranger said. "Dafydd, so good to see you," Seana beamed. "Good to see you again Priest. We'll be glad to have you," BlueLightning grinned. "Its kind of you to say. Now if you'd be so kind as to introduce me to these others then perhaps we can relocate ourselves to more comfortable surroundings," Dafydd suggested. "Blue you know, the blond with the weird hairdo is Serena, Ami's the blue haired girl. Leda's the brunette with the green hair tie. Rei's the black haired one and Mina's the other blond. Oh, and the dark cat is Luna and the white cat is Artemis," Seana said. "A pleasure to meet you all. I believe we might be well advantaged to relocate ourselves to more comfortable surroundings. I have information vital to our continued good health," Dafydd explained. ***** "So just what is this information?' Brenton asked. "As you know my role on AEarth was decidedly minor. I completed it only yesterday. Instead of dyeing as would normally happen Xanthas appeared to me and brought me here...."Dafydd said. "Wait a sec. You mean Xanthas actually made an appearance?" Brenton demanded. "Just who is this Xanthas?" Mina asked. "He's our former master. We hadn't seen him in over 2500 years until yesterday. Xanthas asked me to warn you that if we fail here a reign of terror will be released that will equal the Grimwars," Dafydd said. "Diachnine! Just who is this enemy?" Brenton asked. "I don't know. Xanthas wouldn't tell me. It seems that finding the name of our adversary is to be our first task," Dafydd said. "I think its time for some rather careful planing. Luna, do you have any information on the Negaverse. What I mean is do you have anything on how they get from this world to theirs?" Brenton asked. "They use some sort of crystal," Luna replied. "May I use your eyes?" BlueLightning asked. "Yes" "......So that's how they do it. All right I can open a Gate. Here's my idea. With a little training I can show Solara and the Priest how to duplicate the spell. It'll be noisy but that's the idea. Those two openings will be the distraction. I want the rest of you to spread yourselves between the two openings. You'll be in charge of stopping whatever comes through. I'll open a third Gate silently and go through. Once through I'll be able to track down this new enemy of ours," Brenton said. "I like it," Seana grinned. "I don't it puts Brenton at far too much risk," Ami stated. "You don't know BlueLightning that well then. Believe me he's the best," Dafydd asserted. "Are you sure you're up to this?" Artemis demanded. "Probably not but we'll never know until we try will we?" Brenton grinned. "I don't fucking believe it! You'd think all your years would have bred some intelligence and then you come up with a comment like that. Are you sure you're feeling all right?" Artemis complained. "I'm fine Artemis. Relax, I think if I went much longer without a challenge my hair would start getting color in it," Brenton joked. "What do you mean?" Leda asked. "Any mage who taps into nodes have their hair bleached by the power. The more you practice magic the faster it happens. I was fully white by the age of ten," Brenton explained. "So when are we implementing this plan?" Serena asked. "The sooner the better," Brenton replied. "Tomorrow then?" Seana suggested. "Sounds good I guess. There's's someone I want to call. He should be in on the planning," Serena stated. "Sure, who are you calling?" Brenton asked. "Darien," Serena said over her shoulder. "Who?" Brenton asked. "Darien, Serena's boyfriend. He's also Tuxedo Mask," Rei explained. "Of course, I should have thought of that myself," Brenton stated. ***** "Hey Meatball head, sorry I'm late but I got stuck in traffic. So just what's so important that you called me over here?" Darien asked. "First off I want you to meet Brenton, Seana and Dafydd. They've joined the team," Serena stated. "Joined the team? You mean their like us?" Darien asked. "That's right. They're friends from the moon Kingdom. You see There's's trouble. Beryl's got some ally who can cause a lot of trouble. We've got a plan to get hold of more information on this new enemy but we want your help," Serena said. "That about sums it up," Seana confirmed. "Ok so what's this plan?" Darien inquired. "It goes like this. Dafydd will open the first portal ant nine. Ami, Boris and Mina will be waiting with him to deal with whatever comes through. At nine fifteen Seana will open a second portal You, Serena and Leda will be waiting There's. At the same time I'll open a third gate and sneak through," Brenton said. "Just one problem, who's Boris?" Darien asked. "That'd be me," Greg said, "Dafydd, Seana and Brenton know me by a different name, from a different world." "All right then. I think that's everything. Make your preparations and we'll meet here tomorrow at eight," Brenton instructed. "Great, let's go. I'm starving," Serena said. "Tell me why I'm not surprised. Come on Meatball head I'll buy," Darien said. "Brave man," Leda noted. "That's the truth," Mina replied. ***** "So, where are you off to?" Brenton asked after the others had left. "I don't know. I thought I might take a walk. Tomorrow's date brings up a lot of memories," Seana commented. "How so?" Brenton asked. "Tomorrow's the fourth of February. That's the day I killed myself on AEarth. If the memories weren't bad enough some of the same issues are hitting home as did There's," Seana said. "You want to talk about it?" Brenton inquired. "I guess, if you're offering," Seana's smile was wan. "To start off with There's's one of the student's in a class of mine who's a major bigot. I think he's Muslim. He preaches anti homosexual views to anyone at hand. If it weren't bad enough, I'm the only one who tries to argue with him. Its as if everyone else is agreeing with him in their silence. I think you already know I had some problems with my father on AEarth. He had some grand image of who and what I should be. It had almost nothing to do with what I wanted. That's still weighing on me. I think the biggest issue is that of school. I don't know why but for some reason it really gets to me. Part of it is that it comes so easily to me but that's far from all. I just can't seem to express what it is about the work that get's to me but something just makes me want to scream and weep and break something all at the same time. It gets to the point where I can barely bring myself to go in the morning. Hell I tried to kill myself over it once all ready." "Would it help to stay home?" Brenton asked. "I can't just live off the charity of others and the thought of working at some minimum wage job holds no joy for me. Brenton I just don't know what to do. I don't want to throw away my life again but I feel as if I'm running out of options," Seana wept. "I wish I knew what to say. Unfortunately I don't. Just promise me this. I want you to talk to me before you do anything fatal. Just to talk, ok," Brenton said. "Yeh, I think I can deal with that," Seana replied. "I've kept you long enough though. I'm sure you have preparations that need to make. I just need some time to myself," Seana asserted. ***** "So where you headed," Mina asked of Leda after leaving Brenton's. "Thought I'd head home. I could use a shower incase you hadn't noticed," Leda replied. "Sounds like it has the potential for fun. Mind if I come along," Mina inquired. "No," Leda responded. "What's with the weird look love?" Mina asked. "Its called getting used to being a couple. I mean we are a couple now aren't we?" Leda questioned. "Of course we are. I just we didn't hurt Seana so much," Mina said. "Seana! What do you mean?" Leda demanded. "Some times you can be so dense. Haven't you seen the way Seana looks at us. She's seriously in love with you Leda. I talked it over with Rei this morning. She go the same thing strait from Seana," Mina explained. "Oh God, I didn't know. How heartless we must've seemed. I wish there was something I could do but I can't change the way I feel about you," Leda said. "Don't feel so bad, these things have a way of working out in the end," Mina reassured. ***** "So are those two for real?" Darien asked. "Of course they are," Serena replied. "Don't you trust them?" "No, I don't and you shouldn't either. I mean they just waltz in here and expect that we accept them," Darien asserted. "Yeh, but Artemis and Luna recognized them," Serena replied. "That's nothing the Negaverse couldn't duplicate," Darien responded. "Well we'll find out soon enough. I mean if things go all right tomorrow we should thank them," Serena said. "Do me a favor, just question their motives even if this plan of theirs works," Darien asked. ***** "You ready for this Priest?" BlueLightning asked. "You can count on it Blue," the Priest replied. "Good luck to the four of you. I'm on to check on Seana's team," BlueLightning stated. "Luck to ya Blue," Greg whispered in passing. ***** "Ready?" BlueLightning asked. "Yeh, I'm ready," Solara replied. "I'm off to my position. Shahalla hai!" Blue stated. "Shahalla hai," Solara whispered. "So what does Shahalla whatever mean?" Sailor Moon asked. "Shahalla hai, its a form of greeting between members of the ring," Solara explained. "What's it mean?" Jupiter asked. "Death to the Accursed," Solara answered. "Ewww that's disgusting," Sailor Moon complained. "A little harsh maybe but its not that bad," Darien asserted. "I'm just worried that Blue's going to try to do too much tomorrow, that's all," Solara said. ***** "All right, the Gate's about to go up. Get ready," the Priest instructed. "We're ready," Ami replied. "Here we go," the priest said to no one in particular. "Ok, its up so where's the enemy," Mina asked. "Does that answer your question?" Greg asked pointing to the five robot like figures walking through the portal. "Show time," Mina smiled. With a small flick of the wrist a series of cards appeared in Greg's hand. With a calm toss they spiraled towards the nearest enemy. The spiral of cards locked on to him and held him mesmerized by something only he could see. After what seemed like an eternity the figure fell forward. Greg too fell to his knees. "Greg are you ok?" Ami asked worriedly. "I'll be all right just give me a few minutes," Greg responded. "Its our turn Mina," Ami shouted. "Right," Mina answered. With a spin and a flick of her wrists Mercury launched her mist. The four remaining enemies appeared confused by the sudden cloud. Three of them started firing blindly with machine gun like weapons. The fourth employed what appeared to be an oversized flame thrower. "Watch it those things are deadly," Mina warned. "They aren't like anything we've faced before," Ami stated. "That's the truth. See if you can get some readings on them while I go to work," Mina instructed. Mina quickly launched her blast. It hit one of the enemies in the center of its chest. At first nothing seemed to happen. Slowly with sweat from her concentration on her forehead Mina strengthened the Crescent beam. Finally a loud crunch and a second enemy fell. "Three more, I don't think they'll be as easy to hit now," Mina muttered. "I can keep them distracted," Greg said. Once again Greg threw a stream of cards. This time one from each hand. Two of the enemy were locked, mesmerized by what the cards revealed to them. This time, however, none fell over. "I'll take it from here," Mina said With two quick blasts the two enemies were hit. Once again Venus began to strengthen the beams. This time she collapsed to her knees before the enemies were killed. Greg also sagged to the ground again. A wild shot caught Greg in the shoulder with a wet smack. "Greg!" Mercury screamed. "Do something Priest!" "I can't unless I bring down the Gate," the Priest yelled back. "Then bring it down!" Mercury responded. "We need to distract them," the Priest answered. "We've distracted them. If you don't bring it down now There's's not going to be enough left of us to do anything," Mercury said. "I pray that you are right," the Priest said, bringing down the gate. "Now what?" Mercury snapped. "I need some time. Kindly do something to distract our opponent," the Priest said. "Any suggestions?" Mercury demanded. "I do not care what so long as I have some time. Kindly do something. If necessary arm wrestle it," the Priest sounded almost annoyed. Swearing with unusual heat Mercury charged the lone foe. Though her kick landed square in the enemy's chest it appeared unaffected. Mercury quickly dove away before the slow moving enemy could land a blow with a massive fist. Once again Mercury tried a rush and once again it failed. "I almost have it," the Priest muttered. "Hurry, I can't keep this up much longer," Mercury shouted. "There's we go," the Priest stated. A crackling white field appeared around the lone enemy. The figure seemed paralyzed within. Seconds later, as the field dissipated, the reature sagged to the ground, lifeless and dead. "Took you long enough," Mercury griped. "And I was of the opinion that you were the nice one," the Priest sighed. "Do you have any idea how much pain I'm in right now?!" Mercury demanded. "What do you mean?" the Priest asked. "I don't know at a guess it has something to do with this lifebond Greg and I share," Mercury explained. "You and he are lifebonded?" the Priest gasped, "I'm sorry, I had no idea. Quickly we'd best attend to him and Venus as well." ***** "Is everyone ready?" Solara asked. "We're ready," Tuxedo Mask answered. "Let's do it," Jupiter answered. "Let's rock and roll!" Mars shouted. "Get ready the gate's going up," Solara called. "I see something coming through, brace your selves!" Mars shouted. What charged through the Gate defied description. There's were six of the beasts which seemed to be an unholy mixture of hound, lizard and bat. The things moved as fast as the eye could track. Two of them charged Tuxedo Mask and Sailor Moon. Moon dove out of the way. Tuxedo Mask took a quick step to the side bringing his stick down sharply on the beast's back. Despite the strength of the strike it bounced harmlessly off of the scaly hide. Four of the beasts charged towards Solara, perhaps sensing that it was she who controlled the gate. Mars and Jupiter blocked their path. Jupiter's lightning felled one of the beasts. Mars' fire caught a second and took it out of action. Two continued to bear down on their position. At the last second the two women dove away. The beasts rushed on jumping on Solara. With a muffled scream the Gate closed. Solara disappeared in a flurry of arms legs and fangs. "Quick we've got to help her!" Jupiter barked. "I can't get a clear shot," Mars replied. "Then we do it the old fashioned way," Jupiter stated. The two charged the beasts attacking Solara. Two powerful kicks sent one of the beasts flying. Before they could turn around to make a second pass a strange hissing sound assailed their ears. As they turned they watched in horror as the beast attacking Solara was cooked alive. Solara managed to raise her head and smile weakly before slipping into unconsciousness. The two beasts that had been taken out earlier once again waded into the fray. Tuxedo Mask's rose caught one in the eye partially blinding it. Sailor Moon's tiara quickly followed taking a paw off of the same beast. "I hate to say this but I think we're in trouble," Jupiter shouted. An instant later one of the beasts leaped at her, clawing and scratching. Jupiter caught it in a strangle hold but the beasts momentum toppled them both. When Jupiter rose once more she was bloody and battered not to mention unsteady on her feat. The beast lay dead on the ground near by, its head still smoking. A second rose, this one more accurate than the first caught the eyeless and pawless beast strait in the heart. The beast toppled over with a sigh. The three remaining beasts continued their efforts to reach Solara but now they were well aware of the others. "Any suggestions?" Mars asked. "Try and get a clear shot at them. I'll keep them away from Solara," Tuxedo Mask instructed. Mars backpedaled as one of the creatures slunk towards her. With lightning speed the beast jumped. In sheer instinct Mars raised her arm catching the beast with it. Instead of having is teeth in her throat the creature found itself bitting her arm. With a snap it tore a large chunk of flesh out of Mars' arm. While Mars occupied one of the beasts the two others slowly moved towards Tuxedo Mask. Jupiter could still do little more than stand and watch. This left only Sailor Moon able to take action. Quickly she launched her Tiara at the nearest beast. Her aim was true and the tiara sheared through the beasts throat. Tuxedo Mask continued to use his stick like a sword fencing with the other beast. This seemed to infuriated it. With a vicious snarl in caught the stick in its teeth and snapped it in two. "I think we have a problem here," Tuxedo Mask said diving clear of the beast. "Never would have guessed," Mars shout back. With a supreme effort of concentration Mars flamed the nearest creature. She proved less strong than Jupiter falling to her knees in exhaustion. The lone remaining beast continued to hound Tuxedo Mask. Sailor Moon attempted another tiara shot but it bounced harmlessly off the paving of the road. "I think we're in trouble," Tuxedo Mask repeated himself. "Not quite," came a new voice, "the cavalry's here." "Its Sailor Mercury and the Priest," Sailor Moon smiled. "Can you do anything to help them?" Mercury asked the Priest. "Just give me a second," the Priest said. "A seconds about all you've got," Tuxedo Mask called backpedaling for all he was worth. The Priest hurled a green ball of energy at the beast. His aim was good and it struck the beast's head. For a second nothing appeared to happen. Then the beast exploded in a violent storm of energy. "A little over done," the Priest noted. "Might I suggest we get our people to hospital?" Tuxedo Mask suggested. "Tuxedo Mask is right," Sailor Moon agreed. "We have to get their injuries tended to. Where are Venus and Greg?" "Greg was shot in our fight," Mercury explained. "Sailor Venus is exhausted but otherwise ok. The Priest and I came here instead of going with them to hospital because we thought you might need help." "All right, Mercury help Mars get to hospital. I think she can walk but keep an eye on her. She's lost a lot of blood. Sailor Moon I want you to help Jupiter. She'll be unsteady on her feet. Priest, is there anything you can do to help Seana? If so you'd better do it now before she get's to hospital. I don't think the doctors there are ready for any miracle recoveries," Tuxedo Mask said, taking charge. "I'll see what I can do," the Priest said. "The rest of you get cracking. The Priest and I will bring Solara as soon as we can," said Tuxedo Mask. "We're moving," Mercury responded. What should I expect here Priest?" Tuxedo Mask asked. "Just give me a second to understand the nature of her injuries. Then I should be able to do something," the Priest stated. "What ever you say," Tuxedo Mask answered. "All right, I've got it now. I should be able to bring her back to consciousness and allow her to walk. She'll need our help though," the Priest explained laying his hands on Solara's temples. "What can I do?" Tuxedo Mask asked. "Nothing, its already done," the Priest answered. "What happened?" Solara asked softly. "That is a long story sister," the Priest answered. "Come on let's get you up and moving. The others should be at the hospital by now," Tuxedo Mask stated. "Who else was injured?" Solara asked worriedly. "Mars' got a bite that'll need stitches. Sailor Venus and Jupiter are just exhausted. Something's wrong with Mercury that she's not saying and Greg's been shot," Tuxedo Mask reported. "Sailor Mercury simply feels the pain of her lifebond," the Priest explained. ""So the two of them are Lifebonded, I guess that stands to reason," Tuxedo Mask shrugged. "You know what a lifebond is?" Solara was surprised. "Of course I do. Sailor Moon and I share one. Any dunce can see that," Tuxedo Mask stated. "If you two are about done, the hospital is around the next corner," the Priest cut in. "How do you know your way around so well?" Seana demanded. "I've been here for months and I didn't know that." "I took the opportunity to look at a map before arriving. I'm surprised you didn't," the Priest said. "Blue and I weren't given one," Solara reported. "You weren't? That's strange. Ah, here we are, allow me to catch the door," the Priest said. "Oh, great. Another one," a lady at the desk muttered. "The Sailor Scouts Ally Solara in need of Medical attention," the Priest explained. "Room twenty two. Down the hall on the left," the lady instructed. "I think I see Jupiter and Venus down There's," Seana stated. "Hi guys, gee you don't look so good," Venus greeted. "We had a little run in with the psycho hounds from hell," Jupiter explained. "We weren't so lucky ourselves. Greg's in twenty one. The doctor said nothing vital was hi but they're having a hard time extracting the bullet," Venus brought them up to date. "Let's get our people patched up and out of here as soon as possible. We need to sit down and discuss what happened. Oh, see if you can track down Luna and Artemis," Tuxedo Mask suggested. "Right, we'll let Mercury know and then go. Meeting at Solara's?" Jupiter asked. "Agreed," Tuxedo Mask replied. ***** "What took you guys so long?" Mina asked. "We were starting to worry." "The doctors didn't want to let Solara go right away. It wasn't until the reporters started to show up that they wanted her out. Speaking of which I'll be mighty glad to get out of this costume," Tuxedo Mask stated, transforming. "Oh hi guys, seeing as how Mina forgot to tell you, we let ourselves in," Leda explained.